I would love to see VATSIM USA copy what VATSIM Europe does and assign gates to arriving aircraft. Sadly, a lot of folks in the US don't know which gates there real world airline uses at airports. Thus, it becomes kind of a mess. In Europe, ATC will assign your gate when you land. I think this could be super helpful and help with the immersion that VATSIM brings us all!

The Chicago ARTCC proudly presents the Midwest TRACON Tour, an new series of events that highlights the lesser loved facilities across ZAU. Join us for a lovely evening in South Bend, Indiana!

The South Bend TRACON features two towered airports in South Bend International Airport and Elkhart Municipal Airport. Other airports in the area include Valparaiso (VPZ), Benton Harbor (BEH), and Michigan City (MGC). The TRACON also sequences arrivals into Chicago Midway. Come enjoy the sand dunes off the southern coast of Lake Michigan, or the stunning views of northern Indiana with us on Tuesday evening!

All general aviation, IFR, and VFR operations and all skill levels are welcome. Surrounding facilities such as Great Lakes, FWA, and GUS will have ATC coverage as staffing permits.

In the Regional Circuit, we staff up multiple of our airports to provide pilots with an opportunity to receive 'gate-to-gate' ATC service for the duration of the event. Pilots are encouraged to fly between the airports and make the return flight if time allows; however, traffic from other airports is welcome as well. The Regional Circuit always creates an immersive atmosphere with busy frequencies and congested airways between the host airports.

This Regional Circuit features Boston (BOS) and Syracuse (SYR) airports.

July 8, 2026 1900-2200 ET {8 Jul 2026 2300-0200z}

Mark your calendars for a truly enchanting experience as we invite you to join us for the highly anticipated unofficial kickoff to summer event, Escape to the Cape. This year's fly-in promises to be an aviation adventure over the Cape, featuring the iconic airports of Nantucket (ACK), Martha's Vineyard (MVY), Cape Cod Gateway/Hyannis (HYA), and Cape Cod CGAS (FMH).

Picture yourself taking flight as the weekend dusk of Memorial Day sets in, casting a golden glow over the landscape, creating a magical ambiance for this special occasion. The allure of the Cape Cod's stunning coastline combined with the professionalism of the Boston Virtual ARTCC controllers makes this a cherished tradition and a favorite among virtual aviators in the Northeast.

This event, part of BVA's renowned Fly-in series, has become a cornerstone in the General Aviation community, offering a unique opportunity for pilots to immerse themselves in the rich and challenging airspace of the Cape sector. The dynamic air traffic control services provided by the Boston Approach team ensure a realistic and engaging flying experience, making this event suitable for both seasoned pilots and those just beginning their virtual aviation journey.

As you take to the virtual skies, connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts and share the thrill of navigating this picturesque airspace. Depart or arrive at Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod Gateway/Hyannis, or Cape Cod CGAS to be part of the action, and experience firsthand why Escape to the Cape has become synonymous with the best of GA flying in the Northeast on VATSIM.

Clear skies, the beauty of the Cape, and the camaraderie of the virtual skies await you. Don't miss the chance to be part of this legendary aviation experience during the weekend dusk of Memorial Day. Join us for Escape to the Cape, and let the adventure begin!

May 21, 2026 1900-2200ET {21 May 2026 2300-0200z}
Featuring: KACK, KMVY, KHYA, KFMH

The Sunshine Spotlight Series heads to Northeast Florida with a featured event at Jacksonville International Airport (KJAX)!

As one of Florida’s key airline hubs, KJAX offers a perfect mix of commercial traffic, cargo operations, and general aviation activity. With its expansive airspace and strategic location along the coast, pilots can expect smooth sequencing, realistic airline flows, and a steady stream of arrivals and departures throughout the event.

Positioned just north of downtown Jacksonville and near several satellite airports, KJAX provides a dynamic environment for pilots of all experience levels. From jet arrivals on long finals to quick GA departures, this event delivers both realism and variety.

Event Highlights:

Full ATC coverage from Ground to Center
-Realistic airline and cargo traffic flows
-Ideal for IFR operations with structured arrivals and departures
-Great GA access with nearby regional airports
-Coastal proximity adds scenic value to every flight

Whether you're flying heavy into the Sunshine State or making a regional hop along the coast, Jacksonville is ready for you—file your flight plan and join the action!